The major places of interest in the state of Madhya Pradesh

As a result of its spiritual and historical importance, the travel and tourism sector of Madhya Pradesh is growing at a phenomenal rate. The state has also become famous for its wildlife tourism destinations. If you are a fan of tribal traditions, historic citadels, ancient sculpture and works of art, hill stations, national parks and religious sites, then this state will surely attract you. The state is home to a number of Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist and Jain spiritual hubs. There are many rivers in the state including Narmada, Chambal, Tapti, Ken, and Betwa. Among these, Narmada is revered as a goddess. The most visited tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh are as follows:

Bhopal:

Bhopal is the capital and a major industrial and cultural hub in the state of Madhya Pradesh. In the eleventh century, the city was set up by Raja Bhoj. It served as a territory of the Mughal dynasty till the beginning of the 18th century. The princely state of Bhopal was included in the Indian territory in 1947 following independence. The city features a unique blend of a colorful history, scenic beauty, and contemporaneity. There are two lakes in the city and they are known as the upper and lower lake and these are among the top tourist draws of the city. Other tourist attractions in the city include Juma Masjid, Taj-ul-Masjid, Shaukat Mahal, Laxmi Narayan Mandir, Moti Masjid, Gandhi Bhavan, Shamla and Idgah Hills, Van Vihar, Bharat Bhawan, and Roopankar. There are a number of parks, gardens, and historic mansions that add to its charm.

Gwalior:

The Royal City of Gwalior is one of the major cities in MP. There are a number of huge and imposing citadels in the city that make it a chosen tourist destination. The prime attraction of the city is the impressive Gwalior Fort which draws countless footfalls round the year. It served as the seat of control for a number of important empires. When the downfall of the Mughal dynasty began, Gwalior turned into the foundation of the most formidable Maratha families, the Scindias and the heritage is still evident in the state. Gwalior is also famous for its classical music, especially the Gwalior Gharana. The top tourist attractions in the city of Gwalior are as follows: Man Mandir, Gwalior Fort, Teli-ka-Mandir, Gujari Mahal, Jai Vilas Palace & Scindia Museum, Man Singh Palace, the Chhatris, Sas-Bahu Temples, Mohammad Ghaus’s Tomb and Surya Mandir.

Indore:

Indore is the biggest city in Madhya Pradesh and it served as the capital of the Holkar dynasty. Lying on the riverbanks of Shipra, Indore was set up by Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar who was one of the well-known queens of the country. The city flourished significantly during 1733 to 1818 when it was under the rule of the Holkar kingdom. You will still be able to see the remnants of the Holkar mansion which has a history of more than two hundred years. This is known as Rajwada. The area turned into a princely state when the Holkars were overwhelmed by the British Army led by Sir John Malcolm. As a result, the pact of Mandsaur was signed between the British Army and Queen Krishnabai Holkar and the authority was shifted to the British. Visit Kala Kund, Indore Museum, Sukh Niwas, Omkareshwar Mandir and Island, Mandu, Maheshwar, Kamala Nehru Park and Zoo, Lal Baugh Palace, Kanch Mandir, and Chhatri Baugh.

Orchha:

The expression “Orcha” stands for hidden or concealed. Lying on the riverbanks of the Betwa River, Orchha is a picturesque tiny town in the northern part of this huge state. The Bundela monarchs used it as their administrative center from the 16th century. The place is famous for a number of religious places of worship and impressive mansions which were constructed in Indo-Islamic architectural pattern. The city was set up by Rudra Pratap Singh, the famous Bundela ruler in 1501. The Mughals reigned over the place for a short period. Visit Raj Mahal, Jehangir Mahal, Raj Praveen Mahal, Rani-Ka-Mahal, Ram Raja Temple, Sheesh Mahal, Chaturbhuj and Laxmi Narayan Temple, Martyr’s Memorial, Chhattris or fourteen cenotaphs, Phool Bagh, and Dauji Ki Haveli in the town.

Khajuraho:

The quaint town of Khajuraho is one of the favorite tourist destinations in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Lying right at the center of the northern portion of the state, the place is famous for its outstanding sculptures and erotic statuettes. All the places of worship in this town were constructed when the Chandela kingdom ruled in the area. All the mandirs are devoted to Goddess Jagadamba, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. The places of worship can be grouped into three groups: the Eastern Group, Western Group, and Southern Group. There are both Jain and Hindu temples and the Western Group of temples is regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is a myth that Kama Sutra in India came into existence from this place. The Khajuraho Dance Festival organized every year also makes it special. You can also visit the Panna National Park from here.

Sanchi:

Sanchi is essentially an icon of harmony over conflict in Madhya Pradesh. The place has a history of over 2,000 years. The distance from Bhopal, the state capital is around 46 km. It is a popular place for the followers of Buddhist religion and has plenty of historic and archeological importance. It is a World Heritage Site and houses a number of Buddhist stupas and pillars that were set up on top of a hill. Other than the relics of Buddhism, you will find a number of architectural wonders belonging to the Gupta era. The place is more associated with King Ashoka in comparison to Buddha. The stupas underwent renovation from 1881 to 1919. If you visit Sanchi, you will know many unknown facts about the life of Lord Buddha and Ashoka. Visit the four gateways, Gupta Temple, the Ashoka pillars, Buddhist Vihara, the museum and the Great Bowl.